We’ve always loved guacamole for its creamy texture and bold flavors that bring any meal to life. Originating from Mexico this simple dip has become a global favorite and our 5 Ingredient Guacamole Recipe makes it easier than ever to enjoy at home.
With just a handful of fresh ingredients you’ll create a delicious spread that’s perfect for snacks or parties. We promise it’s quick to prepare and packed with authentic taste so let’s dive right in.
Ingredients
In our simple 5-ingredient guacamole recipe, we focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients that capture the authentic essence of this Mexican favorite. Let’s break down what you’ll need, listed in the order we typically prepare them to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Ripe avocados: 3 medium-sized, ripe avocados (choose ones that yield slightly to pressure for that creamy base we love).
- Fresh onion: 1 small white onion, finely diced (about ½ cup) to add a sharp, zesty crunch.
- Plum tomatoes: 2 medium, diced (approximately 1 cup) for a juicy, fresh sweetness that balances the richness.
- Cilantro: ¼ cup, chopped (fresh leaves only) to infuse that bright, herbaceous note.
- Lime juice: Juice from 2 limes (about ¼ cup) to keep the guacamole vibrant and prevent browning.
These ingredients not only make our guacamole quick to prepare but also deliver the bold flavors that have made it a global staple.
Tools and Equipment
Before we dive into mashing our creamy avocados and mixing the zesty flavors, let’s gather the essential tools that make preparing our 5 Ingredient Guacamole Recipe straightforward and efficient. These items ensure a smooth process from chopping to serving, helping us maintain the fresh, authentic taste while minimizing effort.
To keep things simple and effective, here’s a list of the key tools we’ll need:
- Cutting board: A sturdy, non-slip surface for safely dicing our onions, tomatoes, and cilantro, preventing any slips during prep.
- Sharp knife: Ideal for precise cuts on the onions, tomatoes, and avocados; we recommend a chef’s knife to handle the job quickly and cleanly.
- Large mixing bowl: Where we’ll combine all ingredients; opt for a glass or ceramic one to showcase the vibrant colors of our guacamole as we mix.
- Fork or potato masher: Essential for mashing the ripe avocados into that perfectly creamy texture that defines great guacamole—use a fork for a chunkier dip or a masher for smoother results.
- Citrus juicer or reamer: Helps us extract fresh juice from the limes effortlessly, ensuring we get every drop to brighten flavors and prevent browning without any pulp interference.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate for portions like the quarter cup of cilantro, allowing us to balance flavors precisely in our recipe.
With these tools on hand, we’re set to transform our high-quality ingredients into a delicious, crowd-pleasing dip in no time.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to craft our 5 Ingredient Guacamole, ensuring a creamy texture and vibrant flavors in just minutes.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before mixing, we start by prepping our ingredients to achieve the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Follow these steps carefully for optimal results:
- Avocados: Begin with the three ripe avocados. Slice each one in half lengthwise, then twist to separate. Remove the pit by gently striking it with a knife and twisting it out. Scoop out the flesh using a spoon to preserve its vibrant green color and butter-like creaminess, which forms the heart of our guacamole’s rich base.
- White Onion: Take the one small white onion and finely dice it on your cutting board with a sharp knife. This adds a zesty crunch that brightens the dip, ensuring even distribution for a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Plum Tomatoes: Dice the two plum tomatoes into small, uniform pieces. Their juicy sweetness complements the avocado’s creaminess, so aim for precision to avoid excess liquid that could make the mixture watery.
- Cilantro: Chop the quarter cup of cilantro finely, focusing on the leaves for a fresh, herbaceous note that elevates the overall aroma and taste of our guacamole.
- Limes: Roll the two limes on the counter to loosen the juices, then cut them in half and use a citrus juicer to extract about 2 tablespoons. This not only adds a tangy brightness but also helps prevent the avocados from browning, keeping our dip visually appealing.
Mix the Guacamole
With our ingredients prepped, we now combine them to create a smooth, irresistible dip that highlights the bold, authentic flavors of traditional guacamole.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the scooped avocado flesh from the three ripe avocados. Use a fork or potato masher to mash them until you reach your desired consistency—chunky for texture or smooth for a velvety feel—which enhances the dip’s creamy allure.
- Incorporate the finely diced white onion, diced plum tomatoes, and chopped cilantro into the bowl. Gently fold these in with the mashed avocados using the fork, ensuring even distribution for a harmonious blend of zesty crunch, sweet juiciness, and fresh herbs.
- Drizzle in the juice from the two limes, then stir everything together thoroughly. Taste and adjust if needed—this step locks in the bright, tangy flavors while maintaining the guacamole’s vibrant green hue.
- Once mixed, let the guacamole sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, resulting in a mouthwatering dip that’s ready to serve with chips or as a topping.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of our 5 Ingredient Guacamole Recipe is its flexibility for busy days or gatherings. We can prepare this guacamole ahead of time to save effort while keeping its creamy texture and bold flavors intact. Follow these steps to make it in advance without compromising the fresh, vibrant taste that makes guacamole a global favorite.
Preparing in Advance
To get started right after prepping and mixing your ingredients as outlined earlier, here’s how we handle make-ahead preparation:
- Step 1: Once you’ve mashed the avocados and combined them with the diced onion, tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and lime juice in your mixing bowl, give the mixture a final stir to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Step 2: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a bit more lime juice for extra zing or salt for balance, before transferring the guacamole to an airtight container.
- Step 3: Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to minimize air exposure, which helps prevent browning from oxidation.
- Step 4: Seal the container tightly and refrigerate it immediately to maintain its fresh, herbaceous notes and creamy consistency.
Storage Tips and Duration
We recommend making guacamole no more than 24 hours in advance to preserve its optimal quality. For reference, here’s a quick breakdown of storage guidelines in the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips for Freshness |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated in an airtight container | Up to 24 hours | Always cover the surface with plastic wrap and add extra lime juice for acidity to reduce browning. |
| Not recommended for freezing | Not advisable | Freezing alters the texture, making it watery upon thawing, so stick to refrigeration for the best results. |
By following these steps, we ensure our guacamole remains irresistibly smooth and flavorful, with the zesty crunch of onion and the bright pop of cilantro shining through when you’re ready to serve it at your next snack or party.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this simple 5-ingredient guacamole recipe with you, as it’s a game-changer for quick homemade dips.
It’s not just about the flavors—it’s about bringing people together over fresh, vibrant eats.
Give it a try at your next gathering and see how easy it is to create something truly delicious.
Trust us, once you make it, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is guacamole?
Guacamole is a creamy Mexican dip made from mashed avocados, known for its bold flavors and versatility. It originated in Mexico and has become a global favorite, perfect for snacks, parties, or as a topping. This simple 5-ingredient recipe keeps it authentic and easy to prepare at home.
What ingredients are needed for a 5-ingredient guacamole recipe?
You’ll need three ripe avocados for the creamy base, one small diced white onion for crunch, two diced plum tomatoes for sweetness, a quarter cup of chopped cilantro for freshness, and juice from two limes to add tang and prevent browning. These fresh ingredients ensure authentic, vibrant flavors with minimal effort.
How do I make guacamole at home?
Start by dicing the onion, tomatoes, and cilantro. Mash three ripe avocados in a bowl, then mix in the diced ingredients and lime juice. Adjust the texture with a fork or masher to your liking. It’s quick, ready in about 10 minutes, and captures that classic Mexican taste for any occasion.
What tools do I need to make guacamole?
You’ll need a cutting board and sharp knife for dicing, a large mixing bowl for combining ingredients, a fork or potato masher for mashing avocados, a citrus juicer for lime juice, and measuring cups or spoons for accurate portions. These basics make preparation straightforward and efficient.
Can I make guacamole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Mix the ingredients, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to limit air exposure, and refrigerate immediately. This helps maintain its creamy texture and flavors for busy days or gatherings without losing quality.
How should I store homemade guacamole?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Press plastic wrap onto the surface to prevent browning from air exposure. Avoid freezing, as it can affect the texture. For the best taste, consume it fresh, and always give it a quick stir before serving.